Prosecution of Boston bombing suspect draws criticism

(NBCNC) - The Boston bombing suspect is facing two federal charges this morning: use of a weapon of mass destruction, and malicious destruction of property with an explosive device.

But how he's being prosecuted, and what that means for immigration is drawing much criticism in Washington.

Now that we've seen the charging documents and the suspect is talking, we're learning a lot more detail about the investigation, and the fallout here in Washington.

Late this afternoon, members of Congress will learn more about the investigation in a closed briefing, but some are already questioning why Dhokhar Tsarnaev won't be tried as an enemy combatant. "We will prosecute this terrorist through our civilian system of justice," said White House Press Secretary Jay Carney.

Whether the investigation could delay immigration reform:

"...as a...I would say excuse for not doing a bill or delaying it for years," said Senator Chuck Schumer, (D) New York.

"I never said that!" interrupted Senator Chuck Grassley, (R) Iowa.

"I didn't say you did," declared Senator Chuck Schumer, (D) New York.

"I never said that!" reiterated Senator Chuck Grassley, (R) Iowa.

And whether the FBI should've followed up after Russia targeted the older Tsarnaev brother as a possible terrorist. "If the Russians told us about this guy being a radical Islamist how could we miss it?" asked Senator Lindsey Graham, (R) South Carolina.

"I really think it's premature for any of my colleagues or myself to conclude that the FBI dropped the ball," said Rep. Adam Schiff, (D) California.

Dhokhar Tsarnaev faces two federal charges that could result in the death penalty. Authorities say he's answering questions. "Are there other bombers? Are there other plots in motion? Are there other confederates who are on the loose?" asked Former FBI Agent, Mike German.

Tsarnaev reportedly told investigators he and his brother acted alone, and learned how to make bombs on the internet.

The suspect has made his first court appearance from the hospital -- next securing a grand jury indictment.

Back in Washington, a moment of silence remembering Boston's day of terror.